Grassy Yards: Sustainable Alternatives for a Low-Maintenance Landscape
Grassy Yards: Sustainable Alternatives for a Low-Maintenance Landscape
Grassy yards provide a lush, natural, and earthy feel to your new home. However, traditional green turf lawns require a large amount of upkeep and come at a high cost. The price of the grass, fertilizer, water, and fuel for the lawnmower all add up over time. Add to that the environmental impact of combining fertilizers and pesticides to keep the yard a permissible shade of emerald to appease picky neighbors.
Considering the economic expense, the environmental impact—not to mention the countless hours of physical labor that go into maintaining a traditional yard space—it’s no wonder many homeowners seek alternatives. Some have utilized planters and garden spaces, while others have built layouts that minimize or eliminate turf to mow. Either way, you can create a yard that makes you feel at home while cutting down on time and costs, without sacrificing outdoor aesthetics.
If you’re not a fan of mowing or lack the time for regular lawn maintenance, try these ideas to design a backyard landscape that complements your lifestyle and requires minimal upkeep.
Raised Garden Beds
The beauty of raised garden beds lies in their ability to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. They create a barrier between garden spaces, deter pests, and reduce erosion. Contained soil and fertilizer require less frequent refreshing, giving you more time to enjoy the view. Garden beds can be purchased or built as a DIY project!
Raised beds also enhance design flexibility. Use them to highlight walkways, break up yard space, cover landscape blemishes, separate flowers from produce, or simply reduce mowing areas.
Groundcovers and Low-Lying Plants
Groundcovers spread sideways instead of growing tall, eliminating the need for mowing. These plants add texture and variety to your yard with minimal labor. To control their spread, add barriers like rock beds or brick pathways.
Popular groundcover options include:
- Creeping herbs (oregano, thyme)
- Sweet woodruff, moss, and clover
- Strawberry plants (for added color and fruit)
Consult local nurseries to choose climate-appropriate perennials or evergreens for long-term ease.
Add a Large Patio
Patios, decks, and porches offer gathering spaces without the hassle of foliage. While construction costs vary, sustainable materials ensure longevity. Traditional wood decks require annual sealing, while composite decks last longer with less upkeep.
Research materials and maintenance requirements before investing. A well-designed patio reduces mowing and enhances outdoor living.
Ornamental Grasses
These low-maintenance perennials add structure and movement to landscapes. They need only an annual trim to encourage growth. Native species adapt easily to local conditions.
Common varieties include:
- Fountain grass
- Zebra grass
- Switchgrass and moor grass
- Sedge
Flower Beds
Strategically placed flower beds add color and reduce mowing time. Use them to fill awkward spaces, slopes, or shaded areas under trees. Opt for low-maintenance perennials and avoid high-maintenance species to prevent gardening burnout.
Create Your Outdoor Escape
Ditch the traditional grassy yard and embrace alternatives like raised beds, patios, or ornamental grasses. By working with your landscape’s natural terrain, you can craft a unique, low-maintenance oasis that reflects your personal style.
